AMAZONS & VALKYRIES
The Division Is Real
Colonel Rice, with his love of history and classics, decided that the girls would be divided into two teams, then called Divisions, bearing the names of the Amazon warriors from Greek mythology and the Valkyrie maidens from Norse mythology.
Camp nakanawa
Amazons
The Amazons were a group of all-female warriors in Greek mythology. They were depicted as resembling the goddess Athena, armed with spears and helmets, with armor in battle. They also held in high esteem two values; strength and sisterhood.
The first Amazon Captain, Margaretta Graham, was responsible for selecting a secret rock in the woods as the team meeting spot the first summer. As part of the camp uniform, all campers wore knotted black silk ties that hung to their waistline.
Margaretta is credited with deciding that the Amazons would wear their ties across the right shoulder as a distinguishing mark.
Amazon Warrior Song
Armed with death and mounted well
Not we a race to dwell in quietude,
Rather we would bravely die
Than live to see our name not known.
We only know the clarion call
Of strife and struggle, warriors all,
We must live that others die
Our only song a battle cry.
Who could ask for a better end
Than giving life to help a friend?
Greek Words
BRAVE
HONOR
NIMBLE
Camp nakanawa
Valkyries
In Norse mythology, Valkyries were the shield-maidens to the god Odin. Valkyries were charged with choosing those slain in battle who were worthy of a place in Valhalla.They were usually shown riding horses, wearing helmets, and brandishing swords.
Isabel “Izzy” Wakefield was chosen to lead the Valkyrie team and in 1922, they selected a large rock outcropping to use for their secret meetings. Since the Amazons had devised a new way to wear their uniform ties, the Valkyries continued to wear theirs in the traditional manner. For many years, all ties were black, and the tradition of wearing ties as a way of showing one’s team was gradually adopted.
Valkyrie Maiden Song
All mortals hear ye the call of the maidens
The Valkyries’ ultimate goal the quest for peace.
Instilled in our hearts the ideals of honor,
Conceived from the earth and the sky,
The brown and blue,
We stand united —
Fighting with swords,
Fighting with swords of love.
Norse Symbols
GROWTH
STRENGTH
JOURNEY
